(BROOKLYN, NEW YORK) – Workers employed at The Center for Fiction in Brooklyn have announced their employer has recognized the Workers’ Union formed with the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU).

A delegation of Workers representing a clear super-majority of Employees at The Center sought voluntary recognition of their Union from the non-profit and the Center responded and formally recognized the Union on May 28th.

On June 2nd, Authorization Cards were reviewed, solidifying the RWDSU as the official Bargaining Representative under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

The Booksellers, Baristas, Assistant Cafe Managers, Facilities Assistants, Library Assistants, Administrative Assistants, Event Production Coordinators, Inventory Managers, Program Assistants, Development and Grants Assistants in the Bargaining Unit are seeking to resolve a range of workplace issues, but are focused on having a seat at the table and a voice in decision-making, scheduling, job descriptions and policy at The Center, Union Officials said.

The Union and the organization are set to begin bargaining their first contract soon to resolve these issues and more.

The organizing win comes on the heels of RWDSU’s ratification of the first-ever Union contracts at Barnes & Noble Stores in the Nation.

Through collective bargaining, the Union has raised the standard for safety, wages and health care for Booksellers and Cafe Workers at several bookstores in New York City.

Center For Fiction Bookseller Henri Seguin said: “As Writers, Artists, Community Members and Workers, we are proud that The Center for Fiction has voluntarily recognized our Union. We know the positive impact that collective action contributes towards fair wages, transparent contracts and collaborative communication and we are eager to see it reflected at the negotiation table. We look forward to making The Center a fair, welcoming and empowering space for all.”

RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum said: “It’s not fiction - the Workers at The Center for Fiction now have a Union. With a Union contract in place, Workers will gain the clarity and stability they deserve - knowing their schedules, understanding their job roles and having a real voice in workplace policies and decisions. Bookstore Workers are a vital part of our communities and the stores they run, which is why they must have a voice at work to ensure the industry continues to thrive.”

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